New York Islanders at New Jersey Devils, April 8, 2007

NY Islanders: 81GP ; 39W-30L-12OTL 90 points ; last 10 games : 5-3-2 ; Road record: 17-17-6 ; 4th Atlantic
New Jersey: 81GP ; 49W-24L-8OTL ; 106 points ; last 10 games : 6-4-0 ; Home record: 25-10-5 ; 1st Atlantic

Season Series
The Devils lead the season series 6-1. Tomorrow is the last meeting between the two teams as they wrap up the regular season. The Devils clinched a playoff spot after they beat the Islanders for the sixth time of the season on March 28.

The Devils have secured the Division title and home ice advantage for the first round. They have nothing to play for. The Islanders still have a chance to capture a playoff spot. They are currently one point behind the Toronto Maple Leafs. They need to beat the Devils if they are to make the playoffs.

Toronto will definitely be watching the action on Sunday afternoon and hope the Devils beat the Islanders. The question is whether the Devils will play Martin Brodeur in net since that game is meaningless to the Devils.

According to the Star Ledger, Brodeur would like to play but the new Coach, Lamoriello hasn't decided yet.

Different things come into consideration. If he doesn't play tomorrow, it could be a week between his two starts. Playing Clemmensen would not provide that much of a rest because the playoffs don't start until Wednesday. It is a home game and Fan appreciation night. It would not be fair for the fans to come in and not see Brodeur playing and thank him for an incredible season and a historic record although that is not Lamoriello's concern. Playing Clemmensen could be interpreted as throwing the game away and I don't think Toronto would appreciate that.

Tomorrow could see the return of Richard Matvichuk. There is enough cap room to activate the defenseman. Apparently the Devils don't have to make him play at least a game to be able to use him for the playoffs.

Around the NHL

With their win against Washington, the Sabres clinched the Presidents' Trophy.

Montreal lost against the Maple Leafs and will miss the playoffs. The Maple Leafs are still in the race with the Islanders.

In the West, Calgary can Clinch tonight if they beat the Oilers. Colorado has a slim chance to make the playoffs if they win their remaining two games and gets help from Calgary.